Bitcoin Poker Site Operator To Face Nevada Judge Thursday

Bryan Micon, who left the country after federal agents raided his home for running an unlicensed gaming operation that accepted bitcoin, is expected back in Nevada for a court appearance on Thursday, according to The Las Vegas Review Journal. Micon operated a site called Seals with Clubs, which accepted bitcoin.

Micon fled to Antigua after the February raid. An arrest warrant was issued in April.

Earlier this week, a judge recalled the warrant, allowing Micon to travel, and set a hearing for Thursday, according to court records. Micon’s lawyer, David Chesnoff, said he expects Micon to be in court for the hearing.

Micon would be booked in the Clark County Detention Center, then released on his own recognizance, the court records indicate.

Poker Website Failed to Secure Licenses

Micon operated Seals with Clubs between March 1, 2014 and Feb. 9, 2015 “without first procuring and thereafter maintaining in effect the required licenses.”

The site collapsed in April, leaving an estimated $15 million in player funds unpaid.

Following the arrest warrant, Micon began a campaign on crowdfunding website GoFundMe to raise $100,000 for his legal defense. He has raised $4,005 from 59 donors, according to the website.

I maintain that I have committed no wrongdoing and have retained the legal services of Chesnoff Schonfeld, whom I believe are the best lawyers for my case,

Micon stated on the website.

As a husband, father of a 2 year old girl, outspoken Bitcoin advocate, I desire nothing more than to continue to be with my wife, raise my daughter, and continue to build layers on top of the Bitcoin protocol. The state of Nevada desires to take that away from me. Please help me fight.